Product Risk and Compliance Manager at - Nairobi, Kenya - BURN Manufacturing

Description

BURN designs, manufactures, and distributes aspirational fuel-efficient cooking products that save lives and forests in the developing world.

BURN has revolutionized the global cookstove sector by proving the business case for selling a high quality, locally manufactured and unsubsidized cookstoves.

About the Role:

The Product Risk and Compliance Manager for IoT-enabled Electric Cooking Appliances is responsible for overseeing all legal and compliance aspects related to the development, manufacturing, importation, packaging, assembly, and operation of our IoT-enabled electric cooking appliances in Sub-Saharan Africa.

This role ensures adherence to local and international laws, regulations, and standards governing the production, distribution, and use of these appliances.

Duties and Responsibilities:

Legal Compliance Management:

Monitor, interpret, and ensure compliance with local, regional, and international laws, regulations, and standards applicable to IoT-enabled electric cooking appliances.

Develop and implement compliance strategies to ensure product conformity throughout the product lifecycle.


Regulatory Affairs Oversight:

Interface with regulatory bodies and agencies to obtain necessary certifications, permits, and approvals for product importation, assembly, and operations.

Keep abreast of evolving regulatory requirements and proactively adjust strategies to maintain compliance.


Product Development Support:

Collaborate with cross-functional teams during the product design and development phase to integrate compliance measures into the product roadmap.

Review product specifications, documentation, and technical data to ensure alignment with regulatory standards.


Supply Chain and Operations Compliance:
Evaluate and manage compliance risks across the supply chain, including vendor compliance assessments and due diligence.
Oversee compliance aspects related to packaging, labelling, and documentation for imports, ensuring conformity with local regulations.


Audit and Risk Management:
Conduct regular audits and assessments to identify compliance gaps and potential risks. Implement corrective measures as needed.
Develop risk mitigation strategies to address legal and compliance challenges proactively.


Training and Awareness:

Provide training and guidance to internal stakeholders on legal and compliance requirements pertinent to product development, importation, and operations.

Documentation and Reporting:
Maintain comprehensive records of compliance activities, certifications, and regulatory approvals.
Generate periodic reports on compliance status, updates, and recommendations for senior management.


Technology Risk Management:
Assess and mitigate technology-related risks, including the theft of intellectual property (IP) associated with IoT-enabled devices.
Collaborate with technology and security teams to implement measures safeguarding proprietary information and ensuring adherence to cybersecurity protocols.
Monitor technology integrity and functionality to prevent depreciations or vulnerabilities that could compromise appliance operations or data security.
Develop contingency plans to mitigate country infrastructure technology risk.


Skills and Experience:
Juris Doctor (JD) or equivalent legal degree with a focus on regulatory compliance or related field.
5+ years of experience in legal and compliance roles within the consumer electronics, home appliances, or IoT industry.
Thorough understanding of regulatory frameworks in Sub-Saharan Africa related to consumer products, electrical appliances, and IoT devices.
Strong knowledge of standards such as IEC, ISO, and local regulatory certifications applicable to electric cooking appliances.
Experience interfacing with regulatory authorities and managing compliance in a cross-functional environment.
Excellent communication, negotiation, and problem-solving skills.
Ability to work independently, manage multiple priorities, and drive compliance initiatives across diverse geographical areas.